• Outcome-Based Evaluation: An Introduction
• Five-Year Evaluation of New York’s Statewide Outcome-Based Evaluation Training Program, 2002-2005
  
  
• Outcome examples for Summer Reading Programs
• Information about PLA's Project Outcome initiative

The New York State Library has taken a leadership role in working with The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) since 2003 to bring Outcome-Based Evaluation training to its library systems and their member libraries, so that the results of activities each year can be reported to meet the requirements of the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 (GPRA).

Outcome-Based Evaluation (OBE) is defined by IMLS as a systemic way of assessing the extent to which a program has achieved its intended result. It answers questions such as "What difference did the program make?" and "How did the participant benefit from the program?" OBE is useful both as a planning tool and as an evaluation tool. Outcomes are beneficial changes for program participants that include changes in skills, knowledge, behavior, attitude, status, or life condition.

Although Outcome-Based Evaluation cannot be used for every project, the benefits of using OBE evaluation techniques are many. It can be used as a planning tool, as well as an advocacy tool, and can help communicate the value and success of a program. It can also help libraries focus their limited resources on their most effective programs that address the highest priorities.

OBE Activities

Training Manuals

Certified OBE Trainers

OBE Training Plan

OBE home